Northeast Desk, 21st November: Former MLA of Mawlai Constituency, Standling David Khongwir breathed his last at the age of 90 in NEIGRIMHS Hospital after a prolonged illness on November 21.
The revered politician, SD Khongwir, passed away, and his body has been transported to his family residence near Weiking Field in Mawlai.
Late SD Khongwir was a highly esteemed figure, recognized not only in his constituency but across the state. He held the position of MLA of Mawlai for an impressive 25 years, opting to retire from politics in 1998 instead of seeking reelection.
Khongwir was a prominent political figure from the early days of Meghalaya’s Statehood. His political journey commenced with his first electoral victory in 1972, extending successfully until 1993. However, he made the decision not to participate in the subsequent election in 1998.
Throughout his extensive political career, Khongwir assumed various significant roles, including Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya in governments led by Late Darwin Diengdoh Pugh and Late Brington Buhai Lyngdoh. He also served as the Minister in charge of several departments and chaired the State Planning Board.
A pivotal figure in regional politics, Late Khongwir was affiliated with parties such as the Hills State People Democratic Party (HSPDP) and played a key role in the formation of the United Democratic Party (UDP).
Beyond his political contributions, Khongwir held the position of Rangbah Shnong (headman) of Mawlai Nonglum for an impressive 55 years, marking one of the lengthiest tenures as a headman in the Khasi region. Initially elected in 1968, he also served as the President of Mawlai Town Dorbar (MTD) since 1988.
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